Natural Attraction Development Strategy of Ane Epiah Kali Ayndrat Waterfall in Syakwa Village, Miyah District, Southwest Papua

Abstract

This study aims to find out the potential of Ane Epiah Kali Ayndrat Waterfall and its touristattractions; analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the touristattractions; and to formulate a strategy for developing the Ane Epiah Waterfall touristattraction based on a SWOT analysis. The data of this study were collected throughliterature review methods, observation and in-depth interviews with Pokdarwis, thegovernment tourism office, and traditional stakeholders related to waterfall tourism.Meanwhile, the data were analyzed descriptively, and to determine the strategy fordeveloping tourist attractions, a SWOT analysis was conducted. The results of thisresearch reveal that Ane Epiah Waterfall has great potential to be developed as a touristattraction and destination. The existence of this waterfall is supported by surroundingattractions such as the Kamundan River, an ecotourism site where people enjoy fishingand rafting; the Aysheyuoh River, a popular bathing spot; the waterfall forest area, whichserves as a playground for Cendrawasih (birds of paradise); jungle adventures featuringthe flora and fauna of Siakwa; a water source for flocks of birds; and the cultural tourismattraction of Miyah Tribe, including farming, sago harvesting, hunting, culinaryexperiances, and Noken crafts. The development of Ane Epiah Waterfall must becommunity-based, integrating three key dimensions: economic, environmental(sustainability/conservation), and socio-cultural. The development and management oftourist attractions should be carried out by local communities as the main actors underthe conscept of community-based tourism (CBT).